How To Deal With Allergies

Posted on Thursday, December 11, 2014

Allergies can really disrupt the entire routine of our lives. We have to think twice before going out and if we do, we need to watch what we eat. The best way to deal with allergies is to know what triggers them.

Common triggers of an allergic reaction

Pet Dander

Certain Plants and Pollen

Bee stings / insects bites

Nuts

Shellfish

Certain medications

Common symptoms

Hives (itchy red spots on the skin)

Nasal congestion

Itching

Rash

Symptoms that indicate a severe allergy :

Abdominal pain

Diarrhea

Pain or tightness in the chest

Difficulty in swallowing

Dizziness (vertigo)

Swelling of the face, eyes, or tongue

Flushed face

Fear or anxiety

Nausea or vomiting

Heart palpitations

Wheezing

Difficulty in breathing

Unconsciousness

Identifying the triggers:

An allergy specialist (allergist) can help find the exact cause of your allergy through:

Skin testing - the most common diagnostic method that involves exposing the skin to various substances and observing reactions over time.

Tests involving removal of suspected allergens and then re-introducing them to see if a reaction occurs.

Blood test for allergy checks for antibodies against a possible allergen (An antibody is a protein the body produces to fight harmful substances)

How Is an Allergic Reaction Treated?

Allergies can be managed by consciously avoiding contact with suspected triggers and medical help. However, if a person shows symptoms of an allergy all of a sudden, immediate medical help is mandatory. Remember, some allergies can even prove fatal.